Statistics are useful, but not always interpreted correctly. Often there are too many unknown factors that skew statistics. I cannot agree with the Delaware State Police statistical study that indicates bicycle crashes at stop sign intersections dropped more than 20 percent after the Delaware Yield Law was enacted in 2017.
This law validates bicyclists to speed through stop signs and intersections without slowing down. I and my family are walkers and cyclists. We strictly observe the yield laws for pedestrians and cyclists when we see them. Pedestrians crossing intersections and crosswalks stop at the curb, which is a signal to motorists to yield. Bicyclists do not stop at the same intersections and crosswalks to allow motorists to see them and yield. The walking trail that crosses Old Orchard Road in Lewes has no visibility for motorists and you cannot see a bicyclist until he or she suddenly speeds across the road in front of you. This is a dangerous crossing.
Considering the signs that are ignored now by some travelers on the trails, more signs will not make a sufficient difference. Imagine if pedestrians suddenly ran across streets at crosswalks and intersections, necessitating motorists to come to sudden, hazardous stops. I know that this letter will generate angry letters from avid bicyclists who support this law. I am a cyclist also. The fact remains that too many cyclists ride at high speeds through crosswalks and intersections without regard for their safety and the safety of motorists.
The Delaware Yield Law should not be renewed. If motorists and pedestrians must slow down and yield at designated crossings, and observe traffic signals at intersections, then I assert so must bicyclists.
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